6 Tips for Brushing Your Teeth Like the Pros

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You’ve been doing it your whole life so of course you know what you’re doing, right? Up and down, back and forth – nothing to it. We’re talking about brushing your teeth and, just because even the youngest kids can do it, doesn’t mean you can’t still pick up a few pointers at any age.

Soft Gets the Job Done

Power or manual, both can do the job when it comes to brushing your teeth but soft bristles are a must. Softer bristles can bend and navigate all of those hard to reach places and even gently reach just below the gum line. Soft bristles clean effectively without wearing down the tooth like hard bristles can.

One Size Does Not Fit All

The size of the toothbrush head is also important. As brushes come in various shapes and sizes, and with various angles and flexibility, chose one that fits the size of your mouth. Simple.

Time is of the Essence

Allow for roughly two minutes for each time you brush your teeth. And brush at least twice a day. Go for broke and make certain one of your daily sessions includes flossing and a mouthwash rinse and you’ll be in great shape.

As for when to replace your toothbrush, four to six months is a good guideline. If you notice wear such as fraying bristles, it’s time to move on to something new.

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But Sometimes Patience Plays Off

Although it may not initially seem to make sense, it’s best to wait a bit of time after eating to brush your teeth. Why? Well, eating produces acid in your mouth and brushing immediately after eating spreads it even further so it’s best to wait roughly 20 minutes so allow your saliva naturally flush it from your mouth. If time doesn’t allow, try rinsing with water before brushing to speed things along.

Go Easy

Brushing and scrubbing hard isn’t best. It may seem like the harder you brush, the cleaner your teeth will become but that’s not the case. Plaque is soft and easily loosened from teeth so gently brushing gets the job done without aggravating teeth and gums

Step by Step

One word to consider when caring for your teeth is thinking of the fact that you are massaging your teeth vs. brushing them. The standard back-and-forth motion that many use can damage gums and isn’t as effective as starting from the gum and using a circular motion from top to bottom of the tooth. This allows you clean the important and often neglected gum line as well. And don’t forget to get the inside, or tongue side, of your teeth.

Follow these guidelines and your teeth will thank you!

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